The young West Sumatran dancer and choreographer Ali Sukri has surprised Indonesian public in recent years by interweaving modern dance with the defensive art Pentjak Silat from the highlands of West Sumatra.

In Tonggak Raso, a tight choreography without folkloric references, he explores the effect of external influences on the local culture. Unlike many Indonesian theater performances, which are known for their ritual folklore and slow dramaturgy, Sukri holds the attention by pushing the energy and speed of his performers to a climax. Get to know the best kept secret of contemporary Indonesian performing arts.
 

The best kept secret of contemporary Indonesian performing arts